pV/T Master

Introducing...

pV/T Master ™ - Volumetric lab in-one

​The pV/T Master™ is a novel and versatile volumetric analyzer that allows implementation of variety of static and dynamic techniques by using the core instrument and optional or user provided ancillary hardware. As presented, the basic instrument can be used for volume (density) measurements of  any solid state samples and compressibility studies of cellular materials (foams) using gas expansion technique or time domain pycnometry. The open-architecture design allows for using all resources for variety of research activities. 

Design features (basic instrument, as shown):

• Automatic and Manual modes (hardware and software)
• Volume (density) determinations using pressure or vacuum
• Compressibility profiles of foams versus pressure and pressure intervals
• Software controlled miniature vacuum pump (<10 kPa capability)
• Mass flow controller for implementing of dynamic operation
• Precision low pressure regulator for setting repeatable pressure values
• Absolute pressure transducer (typically 50 psia, 340 kPa)
• Hermetically closed sample holders (No elutriation for fine powders)
• (Optional) flow-through sample holders for controlled purge
• Introduction of time-domain pycnometer
• Added ports for usage of analyzer resources 
• Unique software design to create experiments from preprogrammed functionalities
• Extended software features beyond pycnometry for recording data from various experimentation
• Easy interfacing with external hardware to implement additional capabilities
• Availability of additional temperature sensor (RTD, typically -50 to 150 C)

Possible extensions:

•  Non-isothermal measurements using external sample chambers at different temperatures
•  Easy extension of the sample volume range well over 100 mL
• Bubble point technique
• Liquid expulsion porometry
• Gas transfer rates through various barriers, like films, filters
• Flow rates measurements through packed beds of powders
• Testing of thermal degradation of plastic materials
• Moisture content analyzer - dynamic water vapor desorption at various temperatures and flow rates using RH probe for water mass measurements
• Headspace extraction at controlled temperatures using either closed system or  flow-through mode (dry gas or  humidified gas from external RH generator)
• Surface area analyzers, e.g. by flow through packed beds of powder – permeability technique or physical sorption using cryogenic

​           temperatures within the transducer pressure range (0 - 340 kPa)
 

Foam Compressibility  vs Pressure / Vacuum

P=220 kPa

P=101 kPa

P=7 kPa

Application notes (pdf):

1. Volume changes of compressible materials versus pressure intervals  and foam characterization by a density profile instead of a single value using pV/T Master, a versatile volumetric analyzer.                                                

2. Time-domain pycnometry and addition of dynamic mode of operation to gas expansion pycnometer.      

pV/T Master with optional Permeability Cell Station

3. Measurement of specific surface area of powders using new method and instrumentation

​Deviations from linearity of pressure versus added volume profile as a measure of foam compressibility and its thermal degradation

4. Testing of compressible materials and their thermal degradation using time-domain mode of the volumetric analyzer pV/T Master™ and external temperature-controlled chamber                                     

Moisture loss on drying at various temperatures

5. ​Implementation of flow-based moisture desorption method using volumetric analyzer pV/T Master™ and external temperature-controlled chamber

Bubble Point and Capillary Flow Porometer Station

​6. Bubble Point and Capillary Flow Porometer

​Better implementation of the Bubble Point and Capillary Flow Porometer techniques are presented as optional capabilities that can be implemented in the pV/T Master volumetric analyzer.  Improved theoretical approach and critical remarks that are often omitted in commercial marketing of such products are also presented. 

To inquire about our products, please contact us at:  info@instruquest.com    

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INSTRUQUEST INC.  SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS R&D